There are no compulsory registration requirements to work in the construction industry in New Zealand.
Industry organisations such as Registered Master Builders, Certified Builders Association of New Zealand, Master Painters and Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers help to maintain industry standards. Membership isn’t compulsory; however, these organisations encourage good safety practices and provide members with industry information and some insurance cover. Sometimes specific industry qualifications are required for membership.
A change in government regulations over the next couple of years will require building sites to have a licensed builder on-site to oversee building projects. Any design or building work which is classed as ‘restricted’ must be carried out or supervised by a licensed building practitioner. This system, administered by the Department of Building and Housing, will begin operating in 2007 and licensing for restricted work will become mandatory in 2009.